Hindu Editorial Analysis : 11-March-2024

In India, there is a growing call from social scientists, governments, and international organizations for increased women’s participation in the economy. This participation is crucial for promoting economic growth and improving the overall health of the nation.

Current State of Women Workforce in India

Women’s involvement in the workforce is a vital measure of a country’s economic and social development. Recent studies, like the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), show the following trends:

  • Worker Population Ratio (WPR): In 2019-20, it was 28.7%.
  • Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): By 2021-22, this rate increased to 32.8%, but it still lags behind the global average of 47%.
  • Comparison with Neighbors: Countries like China have a female LFPR of 60%, and India’s rates are lower than those of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Opportunities for Women in the Job Market

Despite the challenges, there are growing opportunities for women in India:

  • Emerging Sectors: The gig and platform economy offers flexible freelancing options, with many women participating.
  • Healthcare and Education: Women make up a large portion of healthcare workers and educators, especially in primary education.
  • Importance of Education: Higher education leads to increased labor market participation for women. Investing in women’s education can enhance their workforce involvement.

Challenges for Women in the Job Market

Women face numerous challenges that hinder their participation in the workforce:

  • Societal Norms: Patriarchal beliefs often view men as breadwinners and women as homemakers, limiting women’s job opportunities.
  • Lack of Equal Opportunities: Women frequently encounter barriers to higher-paying jobs and leadership roles, contributing to the gender pay gap.
  • Career Gaps: Women who take breaks for family responsibilities often find it hard to re-enter the job market.
  • Leadership Barriers: Unconscious biases can prevent women from attaining leadership positions.
  • Work-Life Balance: Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities remains a significant hurdle for many women.

Government Initiatives Supporting Women

The Indian government has launched several initiatives to empower women:

  • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): This program provides affordable housing, with 80% of beneficiaries being women.
  • PM SVANidhi Scheme: This micro-credit initiative helps street vendors, significantly benefiting women.
  • Lakhpati Didi Initiative: Encourages Self Help Groups (SHGs) to generate sustainable incomes, impacting millions of women.
  • NaMo Drone Didi Initiative: Provides drones to SHGs for rental services, promoting entrepreneurship among women.
Additional Key Initiatives
  • Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017: Increases paid maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks.
  • Skill India Mission: Offers training to enhance women’s employability.
  • Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana: Supports women in establishing their own businesses.
  • MGNREGA (2005): Mandates that one-third of jobs under this scheme be reserved for women.

Why In News

There is a growing demand from social scientists, governments, and international organizations for increased women’s participation in the economy and labor market, as this not only promotes economic growth in India but also fosters social equity and empowerment.

MCQs about Women’s Participation in the Indian Workforce

  1. What was the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for women in India in 2021-22 according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)?
    A. 28.7%
    B. 32.8%
    C. 19.2%
    D. 47%
    Correct Answer: B. 32.8%
    Explanation: The LFPR for women in India increased to 32.8% in 2021-22, as indicated in the essay. This figure shows an upward trend but remains below the global average.
  2. Which of the following sectors employs a significant proportion of women in India?
    A. Manufacturing
    B. Technology
    C. Healthcare
    D. Construction
    Correct Answer: C. Healthcare
    Explanation: Women make up a large portion of healthcare workers in India, particularly as nurses and midwives, reflecting their substantial role in this sector.
  3. What societal issue is identified as a major barrier to women’s participation in the workforce in India?
    A. Economic instability
    B. Lack of technology
    C. Patriarchal norms
    D. High education costs
    Correct Answer: C. Patriarchal norms
    Explanation: The essay discusses how patriarchal norms lead to the belief that men should be the breadwinners, limiting women’s opportunities in the job market and contributing to their lower participation rates.
  4. Which initiative aims to provide affordable housing to urban poor women in India?
    A. PM SVANidhi
    B. Skill India Mission
    C. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
    D. MGNREGA
    Correct Answer: C. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
    Explanation: The PMAY initiative aims to provide affordable housing, with a significant percentage of houses allocated to women, thereby enhancing their financial security and independence.

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